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Snakes are very unlikely to strike except in self-defence (for example, if you step on them), and walking boots and hiking poles will usually alert a snake of your approach and give it time to slither off. See ‘Safety in the mountains and what to do in an emergency’ for more information.

A number of lizards are common in Prokletije, including the Balkan green lizard (which grows up to 16cm or more in length), green lizard, Balkan wall lizard, Dalmatian algyroides (unmistakable, with its striking, blue-coloured throat), slow worm and Prokletije rock lizard – the latter a species endemic to Prokletije and known only from a few isolated locations.

The amphibian you’ll probably see most commonly hiking the Peaks of the Balkans Trail is the fire salamander, easily recognised by its bright yellow spots. Other species found in Prokletije include Alpine newt, Balkan crested newt, Balkan stream frog, Albanian water frog and yellow-bellied toad.

A useful resource for identifying the reptiles and amphibians of Europe is www.herp.it.